Uwharrie District Clergy Go to Elementary School for Renewal Event

By Drew McIntyre On April 23, 2015, dozens of clergy from the Uwharrie District descended upon Isenberg Elementary School in Salisbury, NC.  This time with the elementary students was the high point of the second event of three in the Take Thou Authority series of clergy renewal events in the District. The day began with worship in First UMC Salibsury's beautiful sanctuary, including testimonies by Rev. Alanda Harris from Gray's Chapel UMC, Rev. Benny Clodfelter from Wadesboro UMC, and Rev. Angela Burris from Shiloh UMC focused on ways that their congregations are serving the community.  Participants then enjoyed brunch courtesy of the Culinary Arts program at Livingstone College before heading off to Isenberg. Once at Isenberg, the Uwharrie District clergy dispersed to assigned classrooms to cover a large swath of grade levels.  Mostly in teams of two, pastors spent the lunch hour with students discussing a variety of topics and assisting teachers based on the age level of the classes and their needs.  Once classroom time was over, the pastors joined the children outside for play and popsicles. When the students returned to their classrooms, the Uwharrie District clergy gathered with Principal Marvin Moore to learn more about the school and some of their partnerships with local organizations, including First UMC Salisbury. The day at Isenberg ended with a performance from a student gospel group, a lovely indicator of how God is present and praised in our local schools. The Uwharrie District pastors left, having been blessed by the students of Isenberg and by the opportunity to serve in a small way.  As they departed, they circled up for prayer in the front lawn led by Rev. Sherri Barnes, giving thanks to God and asking his blessing on the students, teachers, and staff of Isenberg Elementary. One day day, one school, one small impact.  By such actions is Jesus lifted up and the Kingdom glimpsed. There has been much talk about getting our WNCC congregations involved in our school systems.  The clergy present that day at Isenberg would all tell you what a gift that connection was, even for just one day.  How might God be calling you, or your church, or your Missional Network to be a blessing to the schools in your neighborhood? This was the second of three events planned by the Uwharrie DCOM for 2015. The first event, Take Thou Authority - and Preach! featured Dr. William Turner from Duke Divinity School, and the fall event Take Thou Authority - and Lead! will feature our own Bishop Goodpaster.  Special thanks to First UMC Salisbury and Isenberg Elementary School for their hospitality. Rev. Drew McIntyre is the pastor of West Bend UMC in Asheboro.